Crisis Support

For San Francisco Firefighters and EMS personnel

As an emergency first responder, you’re trained to help people through times of crisis. However, even extraordinary people experience normal human reactions to high-stress situations. Over time, the intense experiences you are faced with as a firefighter or EMT can have short and long-term detrimental effects on your behavioral health and overall wellbeing. Whether you’re active or retired, the physical and emotional trauma of your experiences can surface as addiction, anger, anxiety, depression, PTSD/PTSI, sleep disorders, and more.

The SFFEBHF was started by SFFD members who are currently, or have been, standing in your boots.  Though your crisis is uniquely yours, we recognize and have identified systemic gaps in needed assistance during a behavioral health crisis.  We don’t think you should face it alone.  The SFFEBH is here to provide accessible, confidential grants for travel, lodging, food, clothing, care, and more.

When you are ready to reach out for the support you need, please understand that the SFFEBHF offers complete confidentiality and respect for your privacy. Any written or spoken information you share is confidential and will not be shared with anyone outside of the foundation’s executive board of directors.

We have all taken an oath to protect and serve the citizens of San Francisco, it’s now time to take care of each other!  Contact us today to apply for financial assistance that will help ensure your most immediate needs are covered on the road to long-term wellness.

Short-Term Financial Assistance

  • Travel & Lodging

  • Food & Clothing

  • Medical Care & Time Off

  • Child, Parental or Pet Care

San Francisco Firefighters and EMS Behavioral Health Foundation Logo

Contact

SFFEBHF
PO Box #880442
San Francisco, CA 94188

Federal ID 88-2859272

sffebhf@gmail.com

San Francisco Fire Department badge on shirt

FAQs

About Crisis Support for Firefighters & EMS Members

The SFFEBHF was started by first responders for first responders. We understand firsthand how even a brief delay in financial assistance during your time of crisis can result in devastating, long-term consequences. Because we’ve been where you are, we not only care about you and your situation, but we also know how to guide you toward a path of long-term recovery ‒ starting by addressing your immediate financial needs. You’ve been there for the people of San Francisco during their times of crisis. Now it’s our turn to be there for you.

There are many established organizations, such as the SFHSS Employee Assistance Program, that provide mental and behavioral health treatment on the road to long-term recovery. However, we noticed there’s a financial gap for many fire service members keeping them from getting the help they need. The SFFEBHF partners with you to remove any financial obstacles for travel, lodging, food, clothing, and care so you can overcome today’s crisis and, ultimately, get the long-term treatment on your road to recovery.

The SFFEBHF provides emergency financial assistance to all active and retired, sworn San Francisco firefighters and EMS members. Our organization was started by first responders for first responders.

The short and long-term effects of high-stress experiences often result in physical, mental, and emotional trauma that can surface in a variety of ways. Common behavioral health crises include addiction, anger, anxiety, depression, PTSD/PTSI, sleep disorders, and more. We’re committed to helping active and retired SFFD members in need, so if you’re not sure we can help in your situation, contact us today to learn more. Our team is on standby, ready to support your short-term needs with a grant and/or to navigate you to established programs and services.

Emergency expenses can take many forms. Some examples are travel, fuel, food, lodging, time off work, childcare, parental care, pet care, clothes, and temporary counseling support. Started by SFFD members, we understand firsthand the physical and emotional challenges of active and retired first responders. However, we acknowledge that each situation is unique, which is why we take the time to listen to your specific needs to be able to provide the most effective support possible.

When you contact us, you are taking the first step toward getting the support you need, now!   We pledge to maintain strict confidentiality and hold the utmost respect for your privacy. Any written or spoken information is confidential and will not be shared with anyone outside the foundation.

Get Help Now

Crisis Support Resources

SFFD Behavioral Health Unit

24/7 unit to help with debriefing services, navigation to counselors, addiction services, and other resources as needed.

24/7 Suicide Prevention Lifeline

988 is the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Safe Call Now

A 24/7 help line staffed by first responders for first responders and their family members. They can assist with treatment options for responders who are suffering from mental health, substance abuse and other personal issues.

Fire / EMS
Helpline

Also known as Share the Load. A program run by the National Volunteer Fire Council. They have a help line, text-based help services, and have a collection of resources for people looking for help and support.

Firefighter / Family Crisis Support Line

A 24/7 hotline for firefighters and family members and to speak with mental health counselors who are trained in fire service culture.

Workers Comp 24/7 Nurse Hotline

A hotline for injured workers and their supervisors to get the help they need immediately. Speak with a medical professional, and get the right help more quickly.

Contact Us

Maintain continuity in your behavioral health care with confidential financial support.